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Renewables are on track to keep getting cheaper and cheaper

Renewables are on track to keep getting cheaper and cheaper

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A new report says that ongoing improvements in renewables tech will keep driving steep cost declines that make them even more competitive against fossil fuels.

Canary Media | Sept 2023 | Alison F. Takemura | Renewables | Shield Insurance Blog

Canary Media’s chart of the week translates crucial data about the clean energy transition into a visual format.

Renewable energy already beats fossil fuels on cost globally — and according to analysts, the gap is only going to grow.

By 2030, technology improvements could slash today’s prices by a quarter for wind and by half for solar, according to the authors of a recent report from clean energy think tank RMI. (Canary Media is an independent affiliate of RMI.)

These remarkable and ongoing cost declines have made clean energy so attractive that it now outcompetes fossil fuels for new investment: 62 percent of global energy investment is expected to flow to clean energy technologies this year.

That cash is helping push renewables to new heights. According to estimates from the International Energy Agency, global clean energy capacity is expected to jump a jaw-dropping 107 gigawatts to more than 440 gigawatts this year — its largest increase ever.

What we’re living in ​“is an energy technology revolution,” said report co-author Kingsmill Bond, an energy strategist at RMI. It’s obvious from the data, yet the point is often lost in ​“a consistent drumbeat of counternarratives” about how difficult it is, and will be, to leave fossil fuels behind, he added.

“U.S. fossil-fuel demand peaked 15 years ago,” Bond said. ​“This is happening; people have just missed it.”

Renewable energy costs have fallen, and are projected to keep falling, because these technologies are riding ​“learning curves”: For every cumulative doubling of the deployed tech, its cost declines by a quantifiable percentage that varies by technology. Learning curves are a robust phenomenon that’s been observed for over 50 kinds of tech. Over the past 40 years, the average learning rate has been 20% for solar and 13% for wind.

That’s the underappreciated power of learning by doing; the more solar panels and turbines people make, the more they discover how to make them better, faster and cheaper. The RMI report’s range of forecasted cost declines is based on both these long-term average learning rates and the higher rates observed in more recent years (30% for solar and 25% for wind).

Fossil fuels, by contrast, have not gotten on empirical learning curves. For more than a century, fossil fuel prices have swung wildly without trending consistently downward. 

Visit Canary Media for the full story

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State minimum coverage: Find out if state minimum coverage is leaving you vulnerable

State minimum coverage: Find out if state minimum coverage is leaving you vulnerable

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Shield Insurance Blog | State minimum coverage | Start A Quote Today!

When it comes to auto insurance, many people wonder if they really need more than the state minimum coverage. After all, the state requires a certain level of coverage to legally drive on the roads, so why would you need anything more?

While it may be tempting to stick with the minimum coverage required by law, there are several reasons why it is often a good idea to consider getting additional coverage. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of having more than the state minimum coverage and why Shield Insurance Agency is the best choice for finding the right coverage for your needs.

Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies, which means we have access to a wide range of coverage options. Our experienced agents can help you navigate through the different policies and find the one that best suits your needs and budget. Whether you are a new driver or have been on the road for years, we can help you find the right coverage to protect yourself and your vehicle.

One of the main reasons why it is important to have more than the state minimum coverage is to protect yourself financially in the event of an accident. While the state minimum coverage may be enough to cover damages to the other party involved in the accident, it may not be enough to cover your own medical expenses or repair costs. Without adequate coverage, you could be left with a hefty bill that you have to pay out of pocket.

Having more than the state minimum coverage can also provide you with peace of mind. Knowing that you have comprehensive coverage that will protect you in a variety of situations can help alleviate the stress and worry that often comes with driving. Whether it is a minor fender bender or a major collision, having the right coverage can make all the difference in how you handle the situation.

Another reason to consider getting more than the state minimum coverage is to protect your assets. If you are found at fault in an accident and the damages exceed your coverage limits, you could be held personally responsible for the remaining costs. This could include not only the damages to the other party’s vehicle but also any medical expenses or legal fees that may arise. By having additional coverage, you can help safeguard your assets and protect yourself from potential financial ruin.

At Shield Insurance Agency, we understand that everyone’s insurance needs are different. That is why we offer a personalized approach to finding the right coverage for you. Our agents will take the time to understand your specific needs and budget and then work with our network of insurance companies to find the best policy for you. We believe in providing our clients with options and ensuring that they have the information they need to make an informed decision.

Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK and an agent will be in touch soon. We are here to help you navigate the often confusing world of insurance and find the coverage that is right for you. Don’t leave your financial future to chance – let Shield Insurance Agency help you protect what matters most.

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Comprehensive Car Insurance Coverage Everything You Need to Know - Shield Insurance Blog

Comprehensive Car Insurance Coverage: Everything You Need to Know

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Shield Insurance Blog | Comprehensive Car Insurance | Auto Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

What is covered by comprehensive car insurance?

Car insurance is a necessity for every driver on the road. It provides financial protection in case of accidents, theft, or damage to your vehicle. One of the coverage options available is comprehensive physical damage coverage. But what exactly does it cover? In this blog post, we will explore the details of comprehensive physical damage coverage and help you understand its benefits.

Comprehensive physical damage coverage, often referred to as comprehensive coverage, is an optional coverage that protects your vehicle against non-collision damages. It covers a wide range of perils that can cause damage to your car, such as theft, vandalism, fire, falling objects, natural disasters, and more. Unlike collision coverage, which only covers damages resulting from a collision with another vehicle or object, comprehensive coverage provides protection against a broader range of risks.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the specific perils covered by Comprehensive Car Insurance for physical damage:

1. Theft: If your car is stolen, comprehensive coverage will reimburse you for the value of your vehicle, up to its actual cash value. This can be a significant relief, especially if you have a high-value or expensive car.

2. Vandalism: If your car is intentionally damaged by someone, comprehensive coverage will cover the cost of repairs. This can include acts of vandalism like keying, graffiti, or broken windows.

3. Fire: If your car is damaged or destroyed by fire, comprehensive coverage will pay for the repairs or replacement of your vehicle. This can be particularly important if you live in an area prone to wildfires or if your car catches fire due to a mechanical failure.

4. Natural disasters: Comprehensive coverage also protects your vehicle against damages caused by natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, floods, or hailstorms. These events can cause significant damage to your car, and having comprehensive coverage ensures that you are financially protected.

5. Falling objects: If a tree branch, debris, or any other object falls on your car and causes damage, comprehensive coverage will cover the cost of repairs or replacement.

6. Animal collisions: If you hit an animal while driving, comprehensive coverage will cover the damages to your vehicle. This can include collisions with deer, dogs, cats, or any other animal.

7. Glass damage: Comprehensive coverage often includes coverage for glass damage, such as cracked windshields or broken windows. Some insurance companies may offer separate glass coverage, so it’s important to check your policy details.

It’s important to note that comprehensive coverage does not cover damages resulting from a collision with another vehicle or object. For that, you would need collision coverage. However, comprehensive coverage can be combined with collision coverage to provide more comprehensive protection for your vehicle.

Comprehensive physical damage coverage is not mandatory in most states, but it is highly recommended, especially if you have a newer or more valuable vehicle. Without comprehensive coverage, you would be responsible for paying for repairs or replacement out of pocket in case of non-collision damages.

Comprehensive Car Insurance Deductible

When considering comprehensive coverage, it’s important to understand the deductible associated with the coverage. A deductible is the amount you are responsible for paying before your insurance coverage kicks in. For example, if you have a $500 deductible and your car sustains $2,000 worth of damages, you would be responsible for paying the first $500, and your insurance would cover the remaining $1,500.

The cost of comprehensive coverage can vary depending on several factors, including the make and model of your vehicle, your location, your driving history, and the deductible you choose. It’s always a good idea to shop around and compare quotes from different insurance companies to find the best coverage at the most affordable price.

In conclusion, comprehensive physical damage coverage provides valuable protection for your vehicle against non-collision damages. It covers a wide range of perils, including theft, vandalism, fire, natural disasters, falling objects, animal collisions, and glass damage. While not mandatory, comprehensive coverage is highly recommended, especially for newer or more valuable vehicles. Understanding the deductible and shopping around for the best coverage and price are essential steps in securing comprehensive coverage for your car. With comprehensive coverage, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are financially protected against unexpected damages to your vehicle.

Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK and an agent will be in touch soon.

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Home Business Boom: Ensuring Your Home Insurance Covers Your Side Hustle

Home Business Boom: Ensuring Your Home Insurance Covers Your Side Hustle

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Shield Insurance Blog | Home Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

The rise of home-based businesses is a defining trend of our times. Whether you’re crafting handmade jewelry, offering freelance services, or selling products online, your home is your business headquarters. But have you considered how this entrepreneurial endeavor might affect your home insurance? Shield Insurance Agency, providing home insurance in Michigan, wants to help you better understand how your side hustle may affect your home insurance. 

Assessing Your Current Home Insurance Coverage

Before diving into the intricacies of insuring your home-based business, review your existing home insurance policy. Typically, standard homeowners or renters insurance covers personal property but may not encompass business-related items or liabilities. Understanding your current coverage is the first step in addressing any gaps.

Business Endorsements or Riders

To safeguard your side hustle, consider adding business endorsements or riders to your existing policy. These specialized add-ons can extend coverage to include business equipment, inventory, and even liability related to your home-based business activities. Keep in mind that the extent of coverage varies, so discuss your specific needs with your insurer.

Home Insurance Liability Protection

Running a home business means interacting with clients or customers on your property. If someone gets injured during a business-related visit, your standard policy might not cover it. Liability protection is essential to address such scenarios. Discuss options with your insurer to ensure adequate coverage.

Consult With Us

The home business boom is here to stay, offering exciting opportunities for entrepreneurs. However, it’s vital not to overlook the implications for your insurance. Assess your current coverage, explore business endorsements, and secure liability protection to ensure that your side hustle thrives while your home remains protected. The team at Shield Insurance Agency, serving the state of Michigan, can help you. Call or email us to learn more. 

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The Bizarre Story Behind The Real-Life Barbie And Ken

The Bizarre Story Behind The Real-Life Barbie And Ken

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All that’s interesting | January 13, 2022 | Barbie And Ken | Shield Insurance Blog | Start A Quote Today!

The Bizarre Story Behind The Real-Life Barbie And Ken — And Why They Became Dolls

By All That’s Interesting | Edited By Jaclyn Anglis

Valeria Lukyanova and Justin Jedlica have spent untold dollars to look like real-life Barbie And Ken dolls — and they’ve caused plenty of controversy along the way.

Like it or not, Barbie and Ken’s exaggerated proportions have shaped popular conceptions of physical beauty for decades. This has led some to go to extreme lengths to turn themselves into human dolls — or even the real-life Barbie and Ken. Two such people are Valeria Lukyanova and Justin Jedlica.

Though they’re famous for looking like the doll couple, they’re far from the picture-perfect pair In fact, with their opposing personalities, the real-life Ken and Barbie actually have an ongoing feud.

The Human Barbie: Valeria Lukyanova

The woman who the press has dubbed the “human Barbie” was born on August 23, 1985, in Tiraspol, Moldova — a mostly forgotten remnant of the Soviet Union. Valeria Lukyanova is currently a Ukrainian model and uses her appearance to promote her ideas about spirituality and mysticism.

Valeria may resemble a doll more than an actual human, but she claims she never set out to look like the iconic blonde Barbie. Instead, she simply wants to look beautiful, feminine, and refined. It just so happens that’s the image that dolls are made in, too. However, she admits to loving Barbie as a child.

You may think that plastic surgery and cosmetic enhancement are a large part of Valeria’s signature look, but she claims to have only had breast augmentation. She rails against people who spread rumors that she’s had her ribs removed in order to achieve her impossibly tiny waistline.

More on the story…

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Wind-powered shipping - Shield Insurance Blog

Wind-powered shipping is back as a quiet revolution sweeps the seas

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Positive News | by Robin Eveleigh | August 25, 2023 | Wind-powered shipping | Contact Shield Insurance

A sail-powered freighter is the latest attempt to clean up the shipping sector. Electric ferries are also taking to the waves, but the route to a cleaner future is long

Cutting-edge yacht racing technology has been brought to modern-day cargo shipping in a bid to cut the sector’s contribution to greenhouse gas emissions.

Shipping, largely powered by heavy sulfur fuel oil, spews out around three percent of global emissions. Although wind – not fossil fuels – once powered global trade, sails are impractical on modern vessels thanks to their weight and size.

Until now. 

Wind-powered shipping

Mitsubishi-owned bulker, Pyxis Ocean, weighed anchor on Monday and retrofitted with two ‘WindWings’, designed by British marine engineers BAR Technologies. They’re expected to save the vessel around three tonnes of fuel a day on its crossing from Singapore to Brazil. 

“If you’d asked me two and a half years ago whether wind power would ever again play a significant role in shipping, I would have been skeptical,” said Aleksander Askeland, CSO of Norway-based Yara Marine, which oversaw WindWings’ build and installation. “You need wind to overcome a threshold where it becomes meaningful, and that’s not at all obvious when you have such large vessels to move around. It’s a completely different game to the age of sail.”

BAR Technologies drew on their experience operating in the highest echelons of elite yacht racing to design WindWings, with development funding from the EU and global conglomerate Cargill. 

More on Wind-powered shipping…

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Timing is everything: How to file an auto insurance claim like a pro!

Timing is everything: How to file an auto insurance claim like a pro!

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Shield Insurance Blog | Insurance Claim | Auto Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

Accidents happen. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a major collision, dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be stressful and overwhelming. One of the most important steps in the process is filing an auto insurance claim. But when exactly should you file a claim? In this blog post, we will discuss the factors to consider and the steps to take when filing an auto insurance claim.

First and foremost, it’s crucial to understand what an auto insurance claim is. An auto insurance claim is a request made to your insurance company to cover the damages and expenses resulting from a car accident. This can include repairs to your vehicle, medical bills, and even compensation for pain and suffering.

So, when should you file an auto insurance claim? The answer depends on several factors. Let’s take a closer look at each one.

  • The severity of the accident: If the accident resulted in significant damage to your vehicle or caused injuries, it’s advisable to file a claim as soon as possible. This will ensure that you receive the necessary financial assistance to cover the expenses.
  • Insurance policy terms: Review your insurance policy to understand the specific requirements and timelines for filing a claim. Some policies may have a specific time limit within which you must report the accident and file a claim. Failure to do so may result in a denial of coverage.
  • Cost of repairs: If the cost of repairs exceeds your deductible, it’s generally a good idea to file a claim. Your deductible is the amount you are responsible for paying out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. If the repairs are minimal and fall below your deductible, it may be more cost-effective to pay for them out of pocket.
  • Liability: If you were not at fault for the accident and the other party’s insurance company is covering the damages, you may not need to file a claim with your own insurance company. However, it’s still important to report the accident to your insurance company, as they may need to be aware of the situation.

Now that we’ve discussed when to file an auto insurance claim, let’s dive into the process itself.

1. Gather information: Collect all the necessary information related to the accident, including the other party’s contact and insurance details, witness statements, and any photographs or videos of the scene. This information will be crucial when filing your claim.

2. Contact your insurance company: Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. They will guide you through the claims process and provide you with the necessary forms and instructions.

3. Provide documentation: Fill out the claim forms accurately and provide any supporting documentation requested by your insurance company. This may include police reports, medical records, and repair estimates.

4. Follow the timeline: Be aware of the timeline set by your insurance company for submitting the required documents and information. Failure to meet these deadlines may result in delays or denial of your claim.

5. Cooperate with the investigation: Your insurance company may conduct an investigation to determine the cause and extent of the damages. Cooperate fully with their requests and provide any additional information they may need.

6. Keep records: Maintain a record of all communication with your insurance company, including emails, phone calls, and letters. This will help you keep track of the progress of your claim and serve as evidence if any disputes arise.

Now that you know the steps to file an auto insurance claim, here are a few tips to make the process smoother:

1. Be honest and accurate: Provide truthful and accurate information when filing your claim. Any discrepancies or false information can lead to complications and potential denial of coverage.

2. Document everything: Keep a detailed record of all expenses related to the accident, including medical bills, repair receipts, and any other relevant documents. This will help ensure that you are adequately compensated for your losses.

3. Understand your coverage: Familiarize yourself with the terms and coverage limits of your insurance policy. Knowing what is covered and what is not will help you set realistic expectations during the claims process.

4. Seek professional advice: If you’re unsure about any aspect of the claims process or feel that your insurance company is not handling your claim fairly, consider consulting with an attorney or a public adjuster who can advocate for your rights.

In conclusion, filing an auto insurance claim is a crucial step in recovering from a car accident. By understanding when to file a claim, following the necessary steps, and being proactive throughout the process, you can ensure a smoother and more successful claims experience.

Remember, Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies and can provide you with the guidance and support you need when filing an auto insurance claim. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK, and an agent will be in touch soon. Stay safe on the roads!

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Huge marble artworks dropped into the Mediterranean in a radical plan to eliminate illegal trawling fishing are finally allowing damaged ecosystems to regrow.

The underwater sculptures tackling illegal trawling

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Positive News | by Veronique Mistiaen | August 8, 2022 | Illegal Trawling | Shield Insurance Blog

Huge marble artworks dropped into the Mediterranean in a radical plan to eliminate illegal trawling finally allowing damaged ecosystems to regrow.

What is illegal trawling?

Trawling is an industrial method of fishing that involves pulling a fishing net, that is heavily weighted to keep it on the seafloor, through the water behind one or more boats. The net used for trawling is called a trawl. Wikipedia

Deep into the sea off the coast of Talamone in Tuscany, lie a mermaid and a reclining figure carved in smooth Carrara marble. With other statues, they form a strange, dreamy underwater museum. They are silent guardians, protecting the sea against gangs trawling illegally at night.

With their nets ballasted with heavy chains dragging on the seafloor, the trawlers uproot the Posidonia meadows, a seagrass endemic to the Mediterranean and vital to the marine ecosystem, which soaks up 15 times more carbon dioxide annually than an equivalent area of the Amazon rainforest. 

The practice is illegal within three nautical miles of the coast of Italy, but because it is very profitable and impossible to police the 8,000km of Italian coastline, bottom trawlers carry on at night regardless.

For years, Paolo Fanciulli, a local fisherman alarmed at the devastation caused by the trawlers, has tried various ways to stop them, including placing concrete bollards on the bottom of the sea with the help of Talamone municipality. But it wasn’t enough. 

He thought the blocks might have more impact if they were carved by well-known artists, explained Ippolito Turco, a friend of Fanciulli and president of the non-profit Casa dei Pesci, which they created together to protect the sea. A Carrara quarry offered 100 huge blocks of marble, artists donated their time and locals fundraised for the project.

“I thought it was a brilliant idea: it would attract more attention to the problem,” said British stone sculptor Emily Young, who contributed three colossal heads.

There are now 39 underwater sculptures and marble blocks at Talamone, lowered in 2015 and 2020, and another 12 are ready to join them as soon as necessary funds can be raised.

They create a defense against the trawlers and a unique underwater museum, to anyone. The statues also provide a structure on which organisms can grow, encouraging more plant life and sea creatures to return.

“The first head, the 18-tonne Weeping Guardian, which was lowered down five years ago, shows a good growth of plant life, including anemones. Fish are making good use of the newly available food and hiding places,” said Young.

Click here for the rest of the story on illegal trawling..

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Cracked Windshield? Here's How Full Glass Coverage Can Save the Day

Full Glass Insurance Coverage Can Save the Day

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Shield Insurance Blog | Glass Insurance | Auto Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

When it comes to glass insurance, there are many different types of coverage options available. One type of coverage that you may have heard of is full glass insurance coverage. But what exactly does this coverage entail and how does it work? In this blog post, we will explore the ins and outs of full glass insurance coverage and help you understand if it is something you should consider for your own auto insurance policy.

Full glass insurance coverage, also known as comprehensive glass coverage, is an optional add-on to your auto insurance policy. It is designed to cover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle’s glass, including the windshield, windows, and mirrors, in the event of damage. This coverage is typically available for both personal and commercial vehicles.

So, how does full glass insurance coverage work? Let’s break it down.

First and foremost, it’s important to note that full glass insurance coverage is not included in standard auto insurance policies. It is an additional coverage option that you can choose to add to your policy for an extra premium. The cost of this coverage will vary depending on factors such as your location, the type of vehicle you drive, and your driving history.

Once you have added full glass insurance coverage to your policy, you will be protected against damage to your vehicle’s glass caused by a variety of perils. These perils can include things like accidents, vandalism, theft, falling objects, and even natural disasters. It’s important to review your policy to understand exactly what is covered and what is not.

In the event that your vehicle’s glass is damaged, you will need to file a claim with your insurance company. This typically involves contacting your insurance agent or the company’s claims department and providing them with the necessary information, such as your policy number, a description of the damage, and any supporting documentation, such as photos or a police report.

Once your claim is filed, an adjuster from the insurance company will assess the damage and determine the appropriate course of action. In some cases, the adjuster may recommend repairing the glass rather than replacing it, depending on the extent of the damage. If the glass needs to be replaced, the insurance company will typically cover the cost of the replacement, minus any applicable deductibles.

It’s important to note that full glass insurance coverage usually comes with a deductible. A deductible is the amount of money that you are responsible for paying out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. For example, if your deductible is $500 and the cost of replacing your windshield is $1,000, you would be responsible for paying the first $500, and your insurance company would cover the remaining $500.

In addition to the deductible, there may also be limitations on the number of glass claims you can make within a certain time period. This is to prevent abuse of the coverage and to keep premiums affordable for all policyholders. It’s important to review your policy to understand any limitations or restrictions that may apply.

It’s also worth noting that full glass insurance coverage is separate from collision coverage, which covers damage to your vehicle in the event of an accident. While collision coverage may cover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle’s glass if it is damaged in an accident, full glass insurance coverage provides additional protection against other perils, such as vandalism or falling objects.

So, is full glass insurance coverage worth it? That ultimately depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. If you live in an area with a high risk of glass damage, such as a city with a lot of construction or a region prone to severe weather, full glass insurance coverage may provide valuable peace of mind. On the other hand, if you rarely drive or live in an area with minimal risk of glass damage, it may not be necessary.

In conclusion, full glass insurance coverage is an optional add-on to your auto insurance policy that covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle’s glass in the event of damage. It is not included in standard auto insurance policies and must be added for an additional premium. If you choose to add this coverage to your policy, you will be protected against a variety of perils that can damage your vehicle’s glass. However, it’s important to review your policy to understand any limitations, deductibles, or restrictions that may apply. Ultimately, whether or not full glass insurance coverage is worth it will depend on your individual circumstances and preferences.

 Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK and an agent will be in touch soon.

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How to Become a 100 Percenter

Unlock Your Full Potential: Master the Art of Becoming a 100 Percenter!

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Daily Good | BY DANNY ALMAGOR | Aug 21, 2023 | 100 Percenter | Shield Insurance Blog

At Small Giants, the parent company of Dumbo Feather, we’re all about investing our passion and money into projects we believe can make the world better. We’re 100 percenters—or at least that’s our aim!

The term “100 percenter” is inspired by Charly and Lisa Kleissner, tech entrepreneurs who wanted to invest their money in a meaningful way—and inspire others to do the same. That’s why they started the 100 percent impact network, which brings together like-minded people who invest all of their assets into social and environmental causes.

“being 100 percent isn’t just about money”

Now, these are some serious investors, but being 100 percent isn’t just about money; it’s about making a 100 percent commitment to ensuring your life reflects your values. As Kleissner says, “social transformation begins with personal transformation.”

Just think of all the decisions you make every day, from the big to the mundane—where you invest your super, what you eat for dinner, where you buy your coffee, what you do for work, the relationships you have. Imagine if you could align these choices with your core beliefs. We’re on the road to doing that, and while we’re still working a lot of it out ourselves, this two-step guide will help you get the wheels in motion.

1. Work out what your values are

When I’m asked what key things I want to see changed in the world, I say: protecting the environment, encouraging hope and good leadership, building businesses that do social good, and working for peace. Your values might be different. You might be more of an animal person. Or someone who thinks we can’t go further as a society without learning how to be more vulnerable. The point is: if you can’t articulate the things that are most important to you, how can you ensure you’re focussing your energies in the best way?

A good way to discover what you care about is by doing volunteer work. If you know which area you want to volunteer in—children, homelessness, environment, education, health, etc.—then you’re sorted. If you don’t, try a few new projects until you’re hooked on something. From this, a list of values should emerge.

2. Align your values with your actions

If protecting children is a high priority, consider whether what you do at work, or what you buy, affects kids in some way. Maybe through child labor abuses? Or on a positive note: employing single mothers.

The best way to uphold these values is to surround yourself with like-minded people. It can be difficult to change the people you hang out with, but think about it: if all your work colleagues are mad cyclists, you’ll probably end up riding too, or if all your friends smoke, it’ll be hard to be the only non-smoker. On top of a great social group, find a mentor or coach whose values you respect.

Now, although I’ve made this sound fairly easy, the reality is, change is hard. And even when we do work at it, dilemmas arise. If you’re an environmentalist, for example, how do you justify international travel? If you care about health, should you still eat that sugary dessert? I care about animals but I eat meat, one of my many inconsistencies. The key is to be conscious about your choices and do the best you can. As my kids remind me, “If you reach for the stars, you might just touch the moon.”

What if you were able to align your values with how you live? We have 3 steps to help you become a 100 percenter. A Dumbo Feather production by Dennis YC Liu. 

For more inspiration, join an Awakin Call this weekend with Danny Almagor and Berry Liberman! More details and RSVP info here, 

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